The most effective treatment programs recognize that key goal of substance dependence treatment is the development of a personally meaningful lifestyle that involves productive functioning in the family, workplace, and society.

 

This typical involves:

1. Abstinence:
Abstinence from alcohol and other mind altering drugs. (At certain stages in the recovery process abstinence may not be realistically possible. At those times, effective programs provide harm reduction and motivational counseling processes can then be used to prepare the client to accept the goal of abstinence.)

2. A Structured Recovery Program:
The development of a structured recovery program that supports abstinence and the development of a lifestyle centered around sober and responsible activities.

3. Repair of Biopsychosocial Damage:
Repair of the physical, psychological, and damage caused by the substance use disorder.

4. Positive Personality & Lifestyle Change:
Personality and life style changes that support continued abstinence.